The family unit has become the focus for policy planning, program evaluation, and research. The data series published by the Bureau of Labor Statistics permits policymakers and planners to address social and economic issues affecting families on a more timely basis. (JOW)

A table lists institutions of higher education that have sold all or part of their holdings in companies with operations in South Africa. Most of the institutions that have partially divested use the Sullivan Principles, which set equal-employment standards for U.S. corporations, as a guideline. (MLW)

Addresses sharp upswing in suicide rates in Italy between 1969 and 1989. Notes that northern regions had highest suicide rate; older adults had highest suicide risk. Results of one Italian center are reported, showing parasuicide rates to be higher for females than for males, whereas age group at highest risk is seen to be young women. (Author/NB)

Survey results from 48 state agencies for the blind provide statistical data on independent living programs for the elderly and multiply impaired blind. Conclusions are presented regarding the growth of the older blind population and the consequent policy issues, independent living service components, and need for additional resources. (JDD)

The implication for universities of a trend to orient research and development to national needs is explored. University research policies are responding to fears of losing internally funded research and a growing reliance on external funds. (MLW)

A theoretical structure for projecting long-term outdoor recreation demand is presented and demonstrated, using data from an outdoor recreation survey by the United States Department of Interior. Since the availability of opportunities seems to influence participation significantly, future planning should take into account supply-demand…

Trends in the social work education of Pacific/Asian-American (P/AA) students, distribution of P/AA faculty, and P/AA immigration into the United States are reviewed, and means for improving training programs to provide better equipped social workers are discussed. Three curriculum approaches are outlined. (MSE)

Latinos are gaining greater political representation as their numbers grow in certain states. However, Latino groups, from Cuban to Mexican American, may differ greatly in their needs. Latino and non-Latino leaders must work together to reflect each state's unique Latino concerns in fashioning public policies. (Author/BJV)

Results of the National Association of College and University Business Officers' annual survey (n=340 institutions) of institutional aid to students (tuition discounting) are summarized. Data include an analysis of tuition patterns, freshman tuition discount rates, undergraduate discount rates, class differences, and relationships among variables…

The policy issues confronted by state governments in the area of early childhood programs are examined. Important points in decision making are the contents and financing of the programs and the trade-off between cost and quality. Three appendices include data sources, financial information, and policy options. (Author/VM)

America's growing Asian population is comprised of strikingly diverse ethnic groups. Although many Asian immigrants have achieved academic and economic success, there remain barriers to full participation by Asians in American society. A greater understanding of Asian Americans and their cultures would benefit us all. (Author/BJV)

Four articles address rising college tuition: "An Inside Look at How a Private University Sets Tuition Rates and Spends the Money"; "Comparisons of Tuition Rates Raise Tough Policy Questions"; "At Public Colleges, the Tuition Debate Is a Mix of Philosophy and Practicality"; and "Do Federal Loans Encourage Tuition Increases?" Data on undergraduate…

America's future lies in the growing number of minority group children. Past failure to educate minority children bodes ill for America's ability to compete economically. Our future depends on fully educating these youth and ensuring that minorities are fully represented in our corps of teachers, professors, and professionals. (Author/BJV)

Action is needed now to recruit and keep minorities in graduate education, so that we produce the engineers, scientists, and doctorates we need. Data on minority college and graduate school attendance are provided. (Author/BJV)